This month, we chatted with Diane Newell! Since 2018, Diane has volunteered with us in a wide variety of roles–shopper, order taker, admin volunteer, and as a member of our event team! In addition to our program, Diane volunteers regularly with several other community support organizations; we are so glad to have the opportunity to work with her, and admire her commitment to doing good in our community!
Q: How did you first get involved with Store to Door?
I discovered S2D through the Hands on Portland site. It’s a great way to check out volunteer opportunities and organizations without a big commitment. I shopped at the NW Burnside Fred Meyer years ago but I live in Beaverton and wanted more local opportunities, which I pursued. I was happy to see the program expand to the Beaverton Fred’s, so I started shopping again. On the signup sheet there it noted there was a big need for order takers so I trained in the office for a few shifts and now make my calls from home. During that time I got to know some of the great staff and learned of another opportunity: last year, I helped enter and acknowledge the donations for the annual Nourish to Flourish fundraising event which was good fun.
I’ve really enjoyed all aspects of my experience: the physical nature of shopping, the connections forged by taking orders, the ability to work from home (especially in these times, as several of my other volunteer gigs have been suspended).
Q: What are you looking forward to most when restrictions are lifted in our community?
I am most looking forward to being able to travel. I say my superpower is planning trips, and I play travel agent for my friends and family. I lived in Germany for several months, visited places like Costa Rica, China, Vietnam. I am eager to get back out there in the world! But luckily, I love gardening and dog walking which has kept me busy and somewhat sane these months. I love being outside in the fresh air! But talk to me in January 🙁
Q: What would you tell someone who is thinking of volunteering with Store to Door?
Do it! Great mission, great people, great need.
Q: What is your favorite Holiday tradition?
My partner and I were fortunate enough to spend last December in San Miquel de Allende, in central Mexico. It was wonderful to learn about and participate in their holiday traditions. This year, for Day of the Dead, my partner surprised me with an elaborate altar honoring our beloved deceased. I love that the Mexican culture takes joy in celebrating the dead rather than simply mourning them!